With forecasts of up to six inches of snow throughout Montgomery County, the county school system announced Tuesday night it will be closed Wednesday.
Federal, state and Montgomery County government offices later said they would close.
Most major roads in the county were passable and other routes were snow-covered Wednesday morning. The Metrorail system’s trains were running less frequently. MARC canceled commuter rail service on its Brunswick Line, which has stations from Silver Spring to Germantown.
The school system announced at about 5 p.m. Tuesday all schools and offices would be closed, meaning all school-sponsored activities – including a forum to discuss the county’s education budget – were canceled or postponed.
Because the school system is out of inclement-weather days in its schedule, students will have to report to class June 5 as a make-up day.
A winter storm warning issued early Tuesday continues into Wednesday afternoon.
Forecasts predict heavy snow starting after midnight that could intensify throughout the morning and taper off by the afternoon. Ice and freezing rain are expected, which could glaze roads, sidewalks, trees and power lines.
State officials say the rate of snowfall will be “double the rate” of what snow plows are able to clear, which will cause snow-covered and icy roadways. Roads were pre-treated Tuesday afternoon with salt brine, according to the state Department of Transportation.
Residents are encouraged to prepare for possible power outages by ensuring ample food, water and necessary medication are available.
Caitlynn Peetz can be reached at caitlynn.peetz@moco360.media
